Packaging, storage and display apparatus and system

ABSTRACT

The present invention is directed to a packaging, storage and display system for articles, such as small tools, like drill bits and the like. An index for holding the articles is pivotably mounted in a case. A rack, which may be selected from a variety of rack structures, is mounted within the index, for holding articles having particular sizes and shapes. A frame structure is resistively pivotably mounted on the index, so that the frame structure may be pivoted to a particular position relative to the index, and will tend to remain in that position, until a force in excess of a particular amount is exerted on the frame structure. The index and/or the frame structures may be interchangeably mounted.

This application is a continuation of Ser. No. 11/523,984, filed Sep.20, 2006, and presently pending, which is a continuation-in-part of, andclaims the priority of the filing dates of: Ser. No. 10/636,972, filedAug. 7, 2003 and now abandoned; Ser. No. 10/984,509, filed Nov. 9, 2004and now abandoned; and Ser. No. 11/004,051, filed Dec. 3, 2004 and nowabandoned, the complete disclosures of each of which are herebyspecifically incorporated by reference herein.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

NOT APPLICABLE

REFERENCE TO A SEQUENCE LISTING, TABLE OR COMPUTER PROGRAM LISTING

NOT APPLICABLE

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. The Technical Field

The present invention is directed to packaging, storage and displaydevices, such as are used for containing articles such as drill bits(for example, high speed, masonry, wood, general use bits, etc.), driverbits, other power tool and hand tool accessories and the like.

2. The Prior Art

Containers for packaging, storage and display of tools, particularlysmall tool items, such as drill bits, saw blades, bolt and screwdriverbits, sockets and the like are known.

Some such containers are formed as a hinged plastic or metal two-piecehinged case, that is held closed by a resilient plastic or metal latchthat is simply bent back to release a detent, and permit the two partsof the two-piece hinged case to be pivoted away from one another, toopen like a book. The parts of the two-piece hinged case may haveapproximately the same dimensions, but be formed as essentially mirrorimages of each other, except for the latch structure.

In each part of the two-piece hinged case, positions for holding parts,e.g., drill bits, may be formed directly into the inner surfaces, in theform of pairs of prongs that are spaced apart and sized, so that eachpart position is formed to hold a specific drill bit (or other part)having a specific diameter or nominal size. That is, a bit of aparticular size is pressed between the respective prongs (usuallyconcave toward one another) of the respective pairs and snap-fitted in.Alternatively, elongated slots of different lengths and widths may beformed directly into the inside surfaces of the two-piece hinged caseparts.

Alternatively, instead of forming prongs or slots directly into theinside surfaces of the two-piece hinged case parts, molded or stampednon-moving inserts that have specifically sized slots formed in them,may be positioned into the interior spaces of the two-piece hinged caseparts. One such drill bit holder is sold by DeWalt® under the name NewGuaranteed Tough™ Case.

In more complex versions, a bar or block (usually called an “index”) maybe fitted into the bottom portion of one or both parts of the two-piecehinged case. The index may have a number of blind bores or combinationsof bores and aligned slots formed into it, again having differentdiameters, and possibly different depths as well, to receive tool parts(e.g., drill bits) of different size.

The index is often formed as a single piece that may be blow orinjection molded (if plastic) or stamped (if made of thin metal). Often,the sizes (or other information) of the tools that are to be held in theindex are printed or stamped into the front or back of the index, linedup with the locations of the respective tools.

The index may be fixed in place, such as by gluing or welding, simplefriction or snap-fit. In some prior art tool bit holders, the index isprovided at the opposite ends with male or female dovetail componentsthat interfit with counterpart female or male dovetail components formedinto the inside surfaces of the side walls of the two-piece hinged casepart. One such drill bit holder is made and sold by Blu-Mol under themark “Armor-Case”.

In these three types of cases, the cases are fixed both in the sensethat only specifically sized bits can be held in the cases, and in thesense that because the indexes (if provided) do not move, there is somelimitation to the accessibility of the tool bits.

Alternatively the index may be provided with bumps that project from theends of the index, that are received, e.g., in a snap-fit manner, incorresponding recesses, bores or slots formed in the inside walls of thetwo-piece hinged case part. In some prior art embodiments, the indexmust be bent or deformed in order to fit into the receiving recesses,bores or slots. These recesses, bores or slots may be provided in one ora number of pairs, so that the index may be placed at various locationsalong the “height” of the two-piece hinged case part. This permits thebar or index to be pivoted, relative to the two-piece hinged case part,so that the access to the parts is improved. Additional, smallerresilient projections may be provided to act as detents to hold the barsin place in their recessed positions. Pivoting of the bars out of theirrecessed positions thus requires some small effort to overcome thefrictional or interference resistance of the smaller resilientprojections. One such case is made and sold under the Skil® trademark.

In other prior art embodiments, the index, in addition to beingconfigured to pivot, may be formed as a two-piece construction. Oneportion of the index engages, in a snap-fit manner, to the insidesurface of the two-piece hinged case part, and is pivotably connected tothe other portion of the index which pivots upwardly and out of theplane of the two-piece hinged case part. One example of such a case ismade for and sold by Sears® under the Craftsman® mark, with theparticular index construction being marketed under the mark Speed-Dex™.In this construction, the front area of the index that faces the user isopen, so that there is no room for indicia in front of each bore, toindicate the bit sizes. In this product, the holder of the pivotingportion of the index must be glued in place, against the inside surfacesof the case part.

In the previously-mentioned case made and sold under the Skil®trademark, the index is formed from two pieces of a molded rubber orrubber-like material. One piece has a U-shaped cross-section, that formsthe front, bottom and rear of the index. The second piece is a mostlysolid wedge-shaped block, that is insertingly received and molded, gluedor welded into the first piece, and has apertures formed in it toreceive the shanks of the tool pieces.

In other kinds of tool part holders, the case may be formed again as atwo-piece hinged case, but with the hinge located at the bottom of thecase. One portion of the case is often larger or has more depth than theother portion. One of the portions may include a hole at the top, topermit the case to be hung from a hook, such as on a store shelf or in aworkshop. These cases may also be fabricated from metal, plastic or acombination of metal and plastic.

Such bottom-hinged cases usually include an index that is pivotablyconnected to both parts, often using the axis of pivoting of the twoparts also as the axis of pivoting for the index, and held in place bywire and metal rivets. In some of these prior art constructions, theremay be provided detents or ridges on one or both of one of the caseparts and the index. Upon opening of the case, once the two parts havebeen pivoted away from one another by a certain angle or amount, theindex is forced or at least prompted to pivot away from one or both caseparts. This results in the index being moved to an angular positionsomewhere between the two case parts. Alternatively, a hook or wire mayconnect one of the case parts to the index, to both prompt movement ofthe index and hold the index in place once the case has been opened.Such cases are used to package and sell drill bits sold by MIBRO®.

These cases can exhibit certain characteristics that may make them lessthan optimal, such as that in some prior art cases having indexes thatare not positively affixed, the indexes can fall out when the cases areopened. In some of the two-piece hinged case (book-opening style) cases,the indexes may be configured to pivot, but once out of their recessedpositions, there is nothing to hold the index in its elevated position,so that the index tends to fall back into the case part from which ithas been pivoted. Alternately, in the bottom hinged cases, theinterlocking of the index to the movements of the case parts constrainsthe movement and positioning of the index to a single specific position,when the case has been opened to its in-use position.

It would be desirable to provide a packaging, storage and display casefor holding small tool parts, that is capable of adaptation toaccommodate different combinations of tools of different sizes.

It would also be desirable to provide a packaging, storage and displaycase for holding small parts, that is provided with an index that iscapable of being moved to a variety of different positions, and held inany such different position.

It would also be desirable to provide a packaging, storage and displaycase for holding small parts, that is provided with an index that can bemoved between stowed and deployed positions repeatedly, while reliablymaintaining the selected stowed positions.

It would be desirable to provide a system of packaging, storage anddisplay components that provides for enhanced flexibility in packagingand storage of individual tool parts.

These and other desirable characteristics of the present invention willbecome apparent in view of the present specification, including claims,and drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention comprises, in part, a holder for packaging,storing and displaying articles. An index is provided, having positionedtherewithin a rack which is operably configured to engage and releasablyretain an end of at least one article. A frame structure is pivotablymounted to the index. Rotation control structure interconnects the framestructure and the index, operably configured to enable at least oneportion of the frame structure to remain in a first position relative tothe index until a force greater than a predetermined amount is applied,prompting the at least one portion of the frame structure to move to oneof a plurality of possible second positions relative to the index, andto further enable the at least one portion of the frame structure toremain in the one of a plurality of second positions upon removal of theforce, wherein the frame structure includes at least one surface whichengages with a corresponding mating surface of the at least one index,and the rotation control structure comprises mating ratchet structuresdisposed on the at least one surface of the frame structure and thecorresponding mating surface of the at least one index.

The frame structure may further comprise a web of material, one end ofwhich is connected to and extends from one end of the at least one indexfor a predetermined distance, across the width of the at least one indexand proceeds at the other end of the web, to the other end of the index,to form a loop which encloses a defined space between the framestructure and the index, within which the articles received by the indexare to be positioned.

The frame structure may be selected from a plurality of frame structureshaving different shapes and configurations for defining different shapesand areas of spaces between the webs of the frame structures and theindex, when each of the frame structures is mounted on the index.

The frame structure may include at least one surface which engages witha corresponding mating surface of the at least one index, and therotation control structure comprises mating ratchet structures disposedon the at least one surface of the frame structure and the correspondingmating surface of the at least one index.

The rotation control structure may comprise at least one male ratchetmember, disposed on one of the frame structure and the index, and havingan first axis of pivoting, and a projecting contoured portion withcontoured ratchet surfaces disposed circumferentially about the firstaxis of pivoting on a radially outwardly facing surface of theprojecting contoured portion; at least one female ratchet member,disposed on the other of the frame structure and the index, and having asecond axis of pivoting, and a recess centered on the axis of pivoting,and a plurality of complementary contoured ratchet surfaces disposedcircumferentially about the second axis of pivoting on a radiallyinwardly facing surface of the recess. The at least one first maleratchet member may be laterally insertably received in the at least onefemale ratchet member, the first axis of pivoting being disposedcoaxially with the second axis of pivoting.

The contoured ratchet surfaces of the male ratchet member may comprise aplurality of convex projections.

The plurality of complementary contoured ratchet surfaces of the femaleratchet member may comprise a plurality of concavities.

The contoured ratchet surfaces of the male ratchet member may comprise aplurality of concavities.

The plurality of complementary contoured ratchet surfaces of the femaleratchet member may comprise a plurality of convex projections.

The plurality of complementary contoured ratchet surfaces of the femaleratchet member and the contoured ratchet surfaces of the male ratchetmember may comprise complementary sets of radially extendingprojections.

The rotation control structure may comprise at least one laterallycantilevered male ratchet member, disposed on one of the frame structureand the index, and having an first axis of pivoting, and a projectingcontoured portion with contoured ratchet surfaces disposedcircumferentially about the first axis of pivoting on a radiallyoutwardly facing surface of the projecting contoured portion. At leastone laterally opening female ratchet member may be disposed on the otherof the frame structure and the index, and having a second axis ofpivoting, and a recess centered on the axis of pivoting, and a pluralityof complementary contoured ratchet surfaces disposed circumferentiallyabout the second axis of pivoting on a radially inwardly facing surfaceof the recess. The at least one laterally cantilevered first maleratchet member may be laterally insertably received in the at least onefemale ratchet member, the first axis of pivoting being disposedcoaxially with the second axis of pivoting.

The packaging, storage and display apparatus for articles may compriseat least one retaining pin, operably positioned in the at least one casesection, for releasably engaging and retaining at least one of the framestructure and the at least one index when the at least one index isdisposed in its stowed position. The at least one retaining pin maycomprise a central post, having a retaining arm extending laterallytherefrom; at least one flexible side leg, extending substantiallyparallel to the central post, and connected thereto by a transverse web;and at least one tooth, extending laterally from the at least oneflexible leg, for frictionally engaging an inside surface of a retainingpin receiving aperture disposed in the at least one case section.

Alternatively, the at least one retaining pin may comprise a post,operably configured to be received in a cooperatively configured slot inthe case; a retaining arm pivotably mounted to the post. The post mayinclude a pin extending upwardly therefrom, having a rectangularcross-sectional configuration, and wherein the retaining arm includes arectangular slot extending therethrough, a resiliently deformable legforming one edge of the slot, so that upon receipt of the pin in theslot, the retaining arm is configured to be resistively pivotable aroundthe pin, between at least two positions disposed at least 90° from oneanother.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a packaging, storage and display caseaccording to one example of the present invention.

FIG. 2. is a perspective view of two indexes, in exploded views, for usein the case of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the indexes of FIG. 2, showing one indexin assembled form, the other in exploded form.

FIG. 4 is a view of an index of FIG. 2 in the final stage of assembly.

FIG. 5 is an end view of the index of FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the index of FIG. 4.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of two assembled indexes and their movableframe parts, shown in exploded view.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the components of FIG. 7, showing one ofthe frame parts assembled to its index.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the components of FIG. 7, showing bothframe parts assembled to their respective indexes.

FIG. 10 is a view of the indexes of FIG. 7, with their respective frameparts, with one of the frame parts shown pivoted relative to its index.

FIG. 11 is a view of an index from FIG. 7, which is provide with a twoframe parts in which both components are relatively pivotable.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a two-piece hinged case, with twoindexes and their respective frame parts, prior to placement of theindexes in the two-piece hinged case parts.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the case of FIG. 12, with one of theindexes about to be positioned in a two-piece hinged case part.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view illustrating the pivoting movement of anindex and frame part relative to a two-piece hinged case part, in a caseaccording to FIG. 12.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the case of FIG. 12, showing how anindex and frame part can pivot into a recessed or stowed position withina two-piece hinged case part.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the case of FIG. 12, with both indexesinserted into their respective two-piece hinged case parts, with one ina raised or deployed position.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the case of FIG. 12, with one framepart pivoted relative to its respective index.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the case of FIG. 12, with both frameparts pivoted relative to their respective indexes.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the case of FIG. 12 with both indexesdeployed.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the case of FIG. 12 with both indexesstowed and the case partially closed.

FIG. 21 is an inside elevation of one part of an index case according tothe present invention.

FIG. 22 is a top view of the index cover part of FIG. 21.

FIG. 23 is a rear view, partially in section, of the index cover part ofFIG. 21.

FIG. 24 is an end view of the index cover part of FIG. 21.

FIG. 25 is a sectional end view of the index cover part of FIG. 21.

FIG. 26 is an inside elevation of the other part of an index caseaccording to the present invention.

FIG. 27 is a top view of the index cover part of FIG. 26.

FIG. 28 is a rear view of the index cover part of FIG. 26.

FIG. 29 is a side elevation of the index cover part of FIG. 26.

FIG. 30 is a side elevation of a frame part which may be used with anindex of the present invention.

FIG. 31 is an top view of the frame part of FIG. 30.

FIG. 32 is a end view of the frame part of FIG. 30.

FIG. 33 is a side elevation of a pivot pin for use with an index of thepresent invention.

FIG. 34 is an end view of the pivot pin of FIG. 33.

FIG. 35 is a front view of the pivot pin of FIG. 33, rotated 90° fromthe view of FIG. 33.

FIGS. 35A-35C illustrate a pivot pin construction.

FIGS. 35D-35F illustrate another pivot pin construction.

FIGS. 35G-35I illustrate another pivot pin construction.

FIG. 36 is a top plan view of a two-piece hinged case part according tothe present invention.

FIG. 37 is a side sectional view of the two-piece hinged case part ofFIG. 36, taken along line A-A of FIG. 36.

FIG. 38 is a front view of a retaining pin for use in a two-piece hingedcase of the present invention.

FIG. 39 is an enlarged detail of a surface contour of the retaining pin,according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 40 is a side view of the retaining pin of FIG. 38.

FIG. 41 is an end view of the retaining pin of FIG. 38.

FIG. 42 is a side elevation in section of the ratcheting mechanism inthe interface between the frame parts and the indexes, according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 43 is an elevation of one component of the ratcheting mechanism ofFIG. 42.

FIG. 44 is an elevation of the other component of the ratchetingmechanism of FIG. 42.

FIG. 45 is a side elevation in section of the ratcheting mechanism inthe interface between the frame parts and the indexes, according toanother embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 46 is an elevation of one component of the ratcheting mechanism ofFIG. 45.

FIG. 47 is an elevation of the other component of the ratchetingmechanism of FIG. 45.

FIG. 48 is a side elevation in section of the ratcheting mechanism inthe interface between the frame parts and the indexes, according toanother embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 49 is an elevation of one component of the ratcheting mechanism ofFIG. 48.

FIG. 50 is an elevation of the other component of the ratchetingmechanism of FIG. 48.

FIG. 51 is a side elevation in section of the ratcheting mechanism inthe interface between the frame parts and the indexes, according toanother embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 52 is an elevation of one component of the ratcheting mechanism ofFIG. 51.

FIG. 53 is an elevation of the other component of the ratchetingmechanism of FIG. 51.

FIG. 54A is a schematic illustration of a possible ratchet surfaceconfiguration.

FIG. 54B is another schematic illustration of a possible ratchet surfaceconfiguration.

FIG. 54C is another schematic illustration of a possible ratchet surfaceconfiguration.

FIGS. 54D-54L are further schematic illustrations of possible ratchetsurface cross-sectional configurations.

FIG. 55 is a side elevation, in section, showing the functionalcomponents of a ratchet mechanism in the interface between the frameparts and the indexes, according to an alternative embodiment of thepresent invention, taken along lines 55-55 in FIGS. 56 and 57,respectively.

FIG. 56 is a front elevation of one component of the ratchet mechanismof FIG. 55.

FIG. 57 is a front elevation of the other component of the ratchetmechanism of FIG. 55.

FIG. 58 is a perspective view of the component of FIG. 56.

FIG. 59 is a perspective view of the component of FIG. 57.

FIG. 60 is an elevation of an alternative ratchet component.

FIG. 61 is an elevation of an alternative ratchet component, which iscomplementary to the component of FIG. 60.

FIG. 62 is an elevation of an alternative ratchet component.

FIG. 63 is an elevation of an alternative ratchet component, which iscomplementary to the component of FIG. 60.

FIG. 64 is a front elevation of a retaining pin according to analternative preferred embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 65 is a side elevation of the retaining pin according to theembodiment of FIG. 64.

FIG. 66 is a top plan view of the retaining pin according to theembodiment of FIG. 64.

FIG. 67 is a perspective view of an index lower portion, bearing a“female” ratchet portion according to an embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 68 is a perspective view of an index frame portion, bearing a“male” ratchet portion, according to the embodiment of the invention ofFIG. 67.

FIG. 69 is a side elevation, partially in section, of the female ratchetportion, taken along line 69-69 of FIG. 67.

FIG. 70 is a side elevation, in section, of the male ratchet portion,taken along lines 70-70 of FIG. 68.

FIG. 71 is a perspective view of a pivot pin according to an alternativeembodiment, of the present invention.

FIG. 72 is a front elevation thereof.

FIG. 73 is a side elevation thereof.

FIG. 74 is a top plan view thereof.

FIG. 75 is a perspective, exploded, view of a retaining pin according toan embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 76 is a top plan view thereof.

FIG. 77 is a front elevation of the post for the retaining pin of FIG.75.

FIG. 78 is a side elevation thereof.

FIG. 79 is a rear elevation thereof.

FIG. 80 is a sectional view taken along line 80-80 of FIG. 79.

FIG. 81 is a plan view of the retaining arm of FIGS. 75, 76.

FIG. 82 is a plan view of a retaining arm according to an alternativeembodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

While this invention is susceptible of embodiment in many differentforms, there are shown in the drawings and will be described in detailseveral specific embodiments, with the understanding that the presentdisclosure is to be considered an exemplification of the principles ofthe invention and is not intended to limit the invention to theembodiments illustrated.

While the packaging, shipping and display cases of the present inventionmay preferably be formed from plastic materials, formed by any suitablemethod such as injection- or blow-molding, it is to be understood thatany suitable materials may be used, such as thin, resilient metal.

Any numerical values or dimensions, or indications of color or surfacefinish that may be provided in the drawings are given merely by way ofexample, and the invention is not intended to be limited in any way bysuch indicia.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a packaging, shipping and display case(“tool case” for short) 100 in accordance with the principles of thepresent invention. Tool case 100 includes two-piece hinged case parts102 and 104, with index 106 with frame part 108, and index 110 withframe parts 112 and 114.

As mentioned elsewhere herein, while a preferred embodiment of theinvention is discussed in the environment of a conventional two-piecehinged case for holding drill bits, it is to be understood that theparticular shape of the case, in which the actual tool-holdingcomponents are mounted, is not crucial, and the invention is notintended to be limited by the shape, size or configuration of the case,apart from the fact that the interior surfaces of the case need to havethe mounting structures discussed herein, and as shown in FIGS. 36-41,for example.

FIG. 2 illustrates perspective exploded views of indexes 106 and 110,which may be identical (as illustrated in this application), but whichmay have some structural differences (not relating to the principles ofthe present invention), as dictated by the requirements of anyparticular application. Index 106 includes index cover part 116, rack118, and index cover part 120. Index cover part 116 has formed thereonratchet structure 122 (to be described in further detail herein), with asimilar structure located at the opposite end of index cover part 116.Rack 118, the structure of which will be discussed in greater detailherein, is preferably insertably received in index cover part 116, inslots that run along the inner surface of index cover part 116, from oneside to the other (as shown on the inside of index cover part 124), oralternatively just in the inside surfaces of the sides (not shown).Index cover part 116 and index cover part 120 are preferably heldtogether with a snap-fit, as may be accomplished by resilient barbs 130,preferably located on both ends of the inside surface of index coverpart 120, which may be configured to engage pegs 134, 136. Index coverpart 118 also includes openings 121 at opposite ends.

Rack 118 is formed as two parallel “horizontal” webs 123, 125 that areconnected by one or more “vertical” webs (not shown in FIG. 2). Aplurality of apertures of various diameters are formed in the webs, withthe diameters of the apertures in web 123 having like sized counterpartsin web 125. In addition, stirrup structures (e.g., stirrup 127) may beprovided, so that the tools (e.g., drill bits) do not “bottom out” inindex 106, but are instead elevated above the bottom of index 106, forthe purpose, for example of causing the top ends of the tools to presenta particular desired profile.

Alternative rack structures having various configurations may beprovided, including various stirrup structures, and apertures ofdifferent size and shape, including round and triangular (though othershapes are contemplated).

Index 110 includes index cover part 124, rack 126 and index cover part128. Ratchet structure 130 is preferably located at both ends of indexcover part 124, as are openings 138. Rack 126 is likewise insertablyreceived in index cover part 124, in suitably formed slots on the insidesurface thereof. Index cover part 128 is preferably joined to indexcover part 124 by barbs 140 that engage pegs positioned similarly topegs 134, 136.

FIG. 3 illustrates index 106 fully assembled, while FIG. 4 illustratesindex 110 in the last stage of assembly. FIG. 5 is an end perspectiveview of index 110, showing ratchet structure 130, and FIG. 6 is a top,perspective view of index 110, showing the top portion of rack 126, andthe apertures which are configured, in this embodiment, to receive theshanks of tool bits (e.g., drill bits) of progressively increasingdiameter.

FIG. 7 illustrates an exploded view of index 106 with its frame part108, and index 110 with its frame parts 112 and 114. Frame part 108which may be of any desired shape has formed thereon ratchet structures150 on inwardly facing surfaces of frame part 108, each of which isconfigured to cooperate with a corresponding ratchet structure 122, aswill be described later. Likewise, ratchet structures 152 on outwardlyfacing surfaces of frame part 112 will cooperate with correspondingratchet structures 130 on index 110, and ratchet structures 154 oninwardly facing surfaces of frame part 112 will cooperate withcorresponding ratchet structures 156 on outwardly facing surfaces offrame part 114. Frame part 108 is essentially a web of plastic materialthat forms a loop from one end to the other to define the space (whenthe frame part is “flat” with the index) in which the tool bits areenclosed. A bracing web, if desired, may be extended across frame part108.

FIG. 8 illustrates how frame part 108 fits onto index 106. The ends offrame part 108, being resilient, are preferably spaced apart such adistance that they need to be sprung outwardly slightly, to ride overthe surfaces of ratchet structures 122, and snap into place. Thecooperation of the ratchet structures on index 106 and frame part 108will be described herein. FIG. 9 illustrates indexes 106 and 110, withframe parts 108, 112 and 114 in place.

FIG. 10 illustrates how frame part 108 can pivot relative to index 106.To the left of index 106 is a schematic illustration of how ratchetstructures 122 and 150 engage. Each of ratchet structures 122 and 150include a plurality of radially extending ridges that are triangular incross-section. Being resiliently sprung, the ends of frame part 108 willupon application of sufficient force, move outwardly, so that therespective ridges on each of ratchet structures 122 and 150 will ride upover one another, and return into the next successive “notch” betweenadjacent ridges, in the known manner of ratchet-type structures.

Frame part 108 is (as is the corresponding frame structure for index110) provided to serve several functions. It provides a structure forgrasping for enabling index 106 to be pivoted out of two-piece hingedcase part 102. It also provides a limit to the movement of the tools intheir respective receiving bores in the index, so that duringtransportation or other general movement of the case, the tools areprompted to remain in the index and not become dislodged. The frame partalso provides a way to shield the upper ends of the tool bits (notshown), to prevent inadvertent contact with the ends of the bits whichcan result in both dulling of the bits, as well as injury to persons.Also, when the frame part is pivoted back toward the interior wall ofthe two-piece hinged case part 102, it acts as described herein, as astand for holding the index 106 up in a variety of possible anglesrelative to the horizontal (when two-piece hinged case 102 is lying openon a horizontal surface) or to the vertical, when the case is open andupright (the frame could also be pivoted outwardly and downwardly toprovide support for the index from the front). Furthermore, if the indexand its corresponding frame structure are removed from or otherwise usedoutside of a case (as discussed elsewhere herein), then the framestructure can be used to support the index at an oblique angle to ahorizontal surface such as a table or bench top, or to suspend theindex, such as by a pegboard or similar method. All of the foregoingfunctions are provided, while at the same time, not obscuring visibilityof the tools, when the case is opened (or if closed, if a window isprovided in the case).

FIG. 11 illustrates how frame part 112 can pivot relative to index 110,and how frame part 114 can pivot relative to frame part 112. The ratchetoperation, between ratchet structures 130 and 152, and between 154 and156, illustrated schematically to the left of index 110, is the same asdescribed with respect to the ratchet structures 122 and 150, relativeto the structure of FIG. 10.

The “lower” ends of frame part 112 will be sprung outwardly and snappedover the ratchet structures of index 110, while the ends of frame part114 will be sprung inwardly to fit between the “upper” ends of framepart 112.

Once the indexes and frame parts have been assembled, then theindex/frame part assemblies are placed into and attached to theirrespective two-piece hinged case parts 102, 104. Pivot pins 160 (one isshown enlarged to the left of FIG. 12) are inserted into apertures 121,138 of indexes 106, 110. Each pivot pin 160 includes resilient barbs atone end and a conical outer end. These conical outer ends are configuredto be slidingly received in trapezoidal slots 160 (see FIG. 36) that areformed by pairs of ridges extending inwardly from the inside surfaces ofthe two-piece hinged case parts. The fit should be tight enough toprovide for sufficient friction to prevent indexes 106, 110 from fallingout, upon opening of the case, and may be sufficiently tight to provideenough force to keep an index at an elevated pivoted position out ofcase parts 102, 104, but not so tight as to make pivoting of indexes106, 110 relative to the two-piece hinged case parts difficult.

Although not shown, it is to be understood that if desired, ratchetstructures as described herein could be provided in the interfacingsurfaces between the index and the case surfaces, to provide additionalrotational positioning control, to enable the index to be placed in anyof a plurality of temporary positions and held there, during use.

FIG. 14 shows how index 106 is capable of pivoting relative to two-piecehinged case part 102. FIG. 15 shows how the index 106 and frame part 108can be made to lie flat in two-piece hinged case part 102. FIG. 16 showsindex 106 and frame part 108 lying flat, while index 110 and frame parts112, 114 are standing upright in two-piece hinged case part 104.Pivoting of frame part 108 relative to index 106 is shown in FIG. 17,while in FIG. 18, it is shown how by appropriate positioning of framepart 108 relative to index 106, index 106 can be supported at an obliqueangle relative to the back wall of two-piece hinged case part 102. FIG.18 also shows the pivoting of frame part 112 relative to index 110, andof frame part 114 relative to frame part 112.

When the indexes 106, 110 have been mounted into two-piece hinged caseparts 102, 104, retaining pins 162 (see FIGS. 38-41) may be inserted ifdesired (FIG. 19), into trapezoidal slots 164 (see also FIG. 36-37) intwo-piece hinged case parts 102, 104. Each retaining pin 162 has one ormore side surfaces that are roughened, for example by small barbedprojections 163, as shown in schematic form in FIG. 39, in which thesloping portions of the projections 163 are directed to the “in”direction, and the perpendicular portions of projections 163 aredirected to the “out” direction, so that when each pin 162 is pushed in,there is relatively low resistance, but when a pulling force is exertedon a pin 162, there is substantially increased resistance.

Each retaining pin 162 has a hook 166 that is resilient, and configuredto engage adjacent portions of any frame part that passes it, to helphold the indexes and their respective frame parts in place, untilaffirmatively pulled up and out into their deployed positions. Forexample, when an index is being pushed down into its case part 102, 104,as the frame part 165 pushes down on hook 166, hook 166 is pusheddownward and inwardly, as shown by the arrow in FIG. 40. Once the framepart (shown in broken lines as 165) passes the position of pushed inhook 166, hook 166 is free to resiliently return to its unbent position,preventing frame part 165 from passing hook 166. Preferably, there issufficient vertical and lateral spacing between a frame part 165 andhook 166, so that when it is desired to flip up the index associatedwith frame part 165, hook 166 is simply pushed down and held in place,while frame part 165 is lifted up, causing its associated index to belikewise pivoted up.

While the retaining pins 162 are shown as being inserted into case parts102, 104, it is to be understood that retaining pins 162 could also beintegrally formed into case parts 102, 104, either as separate piecesthat are later affixed in place, or as projections monolithically formedon case parts 102, 104. In addition, while pins 162 are shown asengaging only frame parts, it is to be understood that pins could alsobe positioned to releasably engage indexes 106, 110 directly. FIG. 20shows case 100 partially closed.

FIGS. 21-25 illustrate index cover part 116 (124) which may be identicalas illustrated or which may have structural differences not directed tothe principles of the invention, which has formed thereon ratchetstructures 122 (130) (shown somewhat schematically in FIG. 24), andapertures 121 (138). In addition, FIGS. 21 and 25 particularlyillustrate slots 143, 145 located on the inside surface of index coverpart 106 (110) that are to receive the side edges of racks 118, 126.FIGS. 23 and 25 particularly illustrate pegs 134, 136 that are engagedby barbs 132 (140) (which, as illustrated may be identical, or which mayhave other configurations as desired).

FIGS. 26-29 illustrate index cover part 120 (128) which may be identicalas illustrated or which may have structural differences not directed tothe principles of the invention, which includes barbs 132 (140) (which,as illustrated may be identical, or which may have other configurationsas desired) which are configured to engage pegs 134, 136 of index coverpart 116 (124). FIGS. 30-32 illustrate a frame part 114′ that isanalogous to frame parts 108 and 114 of FIGS. 1-21, having ratchetstructures 156′. FIGS. 33-35 illustrate pivot pin 160, incorporatingresilient barbs 162, which deflect when the conical end of a pivot pin160 is pushed into an aperture 121 (138), and snap back once the barbshave been pushed into the interior region of each index cover part 116(124).

FIGS. 35A-35C illustrate another pivot pin, having a split front end,and a conical base or foot. FIGS. 35D-35F illustrate a pivot pin, havinga domed split front end, and a pyramidal base or foot (which can lockinto the trapezoidal slot) so that rotation of an index occurs betweenthe contact surface between the index and the pin, and not between thepin and the slot surfaces). FIGS. 35G-35I illustrate a pin having apyramidal basic that is bowtie-shaped in plan. In each pin constructionthe shaft and front end of the pins are bodies of revolution preferablyhaving circular (although other cross-sections are contemplated)cross-sections that are split, to permit snap-fit insertion into theapertures in the ends of the indexes.

FIGS. 36, 37 illustrate an alternative configuration of an interior fora two-piece hinged case part, which is provided with more slots forreceiving the end of pivot pins and/or other insertable components, suchas retaining pins. FIGS. 36, 37 illustrate in further detail theconfiguration of the interior for two-piece hinged case parts 102, 104,showing slots 160 for receiving the pivot pins for the indexes, andslots 164 for receiving the retaining pins of FIGS. 38-41.

FIGS. 42-44, 45-47, 48-50, and 51-53 illustrate pairs of mating ratchetstructures which could be used for any of the pairs of ratchetstructures (122, 150; 130, 152; 154, 156) that have been identifiedherein. The ratchet structures are complementary, and the respectivestructures can be mounted on or formed in either of the respectivefacing surfaces, in the index cover parts and frame parts.

In FIGS. 42-44, the matching pair of ratchet structures includes, on oneof the mating surfaces, a “female” structure of twelve (although ahigher or lower number could be used) radiating ribs 200, that are setin a recess 202, concentrically surrounding a bore or aperture 204. Eachof ribs 200 preferably has a triangular cross-section that preferablyincreases in height and width, with distance from the center 206. On theother mating surface, a “male” structure of twelve (although a likehigher or lower number could be used) radiating ribs 210, that are seton a raised circular pedestal 212, concentrically surrounding acylindrical post 214. Each of ribs 210 likewise preferably has atriangular cross-section that is the same as that of corresponding ribs200, which preferably increases in height and width, with distance fromcenter 216. Ribs 200 and 210 will be preferably uniformlycircumferentially spaced around their respective centers 206, 216, withribs 210 being offset by, e.g., 15°. When the surfaces are mated, post214 will be insertingly received in bore or aperture 204, to help keepthe surfaces aligned. When a torsional force is exerted, at a certainpoint the force will exceed the resistance and bending strength of theleg of the frame part upon which one or the other of the ratchetstructures is positioned, and the leg will bend sufficient to permit theribs on that leg to “ride up” and over the ribs of the othercorresponding ratchet structure, in the usual manner of such structures.As soon as the torsional force is reduced or removed, the structureswill remain in their new positions until acted upon again by asufficiently strong torsional force.

In FIGS. 45-47, the matching pair of ratchet structures includes, on oneof the mating surfaces, a “male” structure of twelve (although a higheror lower number could be used) radiating ribs 300, that are set on araised circular pedestal 302, concentrically surrounding a bore oraperture 304. Each of ribs 300 preferably has a triangular cross-sectionthat preferably increases in height and width, with distance from thecenter 306. On the other mating surface, a “male” structure of twelve(although a like higher or lower number could be used) radiating ribs310, that are set on a raised circular pedestal 312, concentricallysurrounding a cylindrical post 314. Each of ribs 310 likewise preferablyhas a triangular cross-section that is the same as that of correspondingribs 300, which preferably increases in height and width, with distancefrom center 316. Ribs 300 and 310 will be preferably uniformlycircumferentially spaced around their respective centers 306, 316, withribs 310 being offset by, e.g., 150. In operation, when the surfaces aremated, post 314 will be insertingly received in bore or aperture 304, tohelp keep the mating surfaces aligned. The ratcheting action is asdescribed with respect to FIGS. 42-44.

In FIGS. 48-50, the matching pair of ratchet structures includes, on oneof the mating surfaces, a “male” structure of twelve (although a higheror lower number could be used) radiating ribs 400, that are set flat onthe mating surface 402, concentrically surrounding a cylindrical post404. Each of ribs 400 preferably has a triangular cross-section thatpreferably increases in height and width, with distance from the center406. On the other mating surface, a “male” structure of twelve (althougha like higher or lower number could be used) radiating ribs 410, thatare set flat on the mating surface 412, concentrically surrounding acylindrical bore or aperture 414. Each of ribs 410 likewise preferablyhas a triangular cross-section that is the same as that of correspondingribs 400, which preferably increases in height and width, with distancefrom center 416. Ribs 400 and 410 will be preferably uniformlycircumferentially spaced around their respective centers 406, 416, withribs 410 being offset by, e.g., 15°. In operation, when the surfaces aremated, post 404 will be insertingly received in bore or aperture 414, tohelp keep the mating surfaces aligned. The ratcheting action is asdescribed with respect to FIGS. 42-44.

In FIGS. 51-53, the matching pair of ratchet structures includes, on oneof the mating surfaces, a “female” structure of twelve (although ahigher or lower number could be used) radiating ribs 500, that are setin a recess 502, concentrically surrounding a cylindrical post 504. Eachof ribs 500 preferably has a triangular cross-section that preferablyincreases in height and width, with distance from the center 506. On theother mating surface, a “male” structure of twelve (although a likehigher or lower number could be used) radiating ribs 510, that are seton a raised circular pedestal 512, concentrically surrounding acylindrical bore or aperture 514. Each of ribs 510 likewise preferablyhas a triangular cross-section that is the same as that of correspondingribs 500, which preferably increases in height and width, with distancefrom center 516. Ribs 500 and 510 will be preferably uniformlycircumferentially spaced around their respective centers 506, 516, withribs 510 being offset by, e.g., 15°. When the surfaces are mated, post504 will be insertingly received in bore or aperture 514, to help keepthe surfaces aligned. The ratcheting action is as described with respectto FIGS. 42-44.

FIGS. 54A-54C illustrate schematically that the particular configurationof the ratchet structure, including the number of radiating ridges(indicated by the radiating lines), whether the ridges extend completelyor partially from the center to the outer periphery, and whether theremay be more than one concentric feature (like a post or a bore) that mayor may not have ridges on it, can be widely varied by one of ordinaryskill in the art, having the present disclosure before them, withoutdeparting from the scope of the invention.

FIGS. 54D-54L illustrate some of the possible various cross-sectionalconfigurations that the ridges of the ratchet structures may have,including but not limited to: triangle; half-circle; half-ellipse(width=long axis); half-ellipse (width=short axis); polygon with flatcrest; polygon with peaked crest; and three combined curve and straightline configurations, both flat topped and peaked, respectively (oftencalled “obrounds”). In each case, whatever ridge cross-section isselected, it is understood that for the ridges of two opposing ratchetsurfaces to interdigitate well, the cross-sections preferably increasein height and width, with distance from the center of the ratchetsurface to the periphery.

With each of the ratchet structures described hereinabove, thecross-sectional shape of the ribs may be modified to, for example,semicircular shapes or semi-elliptical shapes, as may be desired. Also,because the ribs extend in complete circles, relative rotation of thecomponents is only limited by any obstructions external to the ratchetstructures. In the present invention, as can be seen from the otherdrawings, the range of pivoting movement is clearly quite large, beingthe substantial majority of a complete circle in each illustratedembodiment.

Although ratchet structures are preferred for providing rotationalcontrol of the frame parts relative to the indexes and to each other (inthe case of multiple connected frame parts), it is contemplated thatother (usually friction or interference-based) types of rotationalcontrol structures may be provided, that are based upon the principlethat resistance (up to a certain torsional value) is exerted, so thatthe frame structure can be pivoted to a desired position, and reliablyremain in that desired position, during normal use conditions, untilmoved again by the user.

FIGS. 55-63 illustrate functional components for additional alternativeratchet structures. Unlike the previously described ratchet structuresof FIGS. 42-44, in which the ribs extend radially from the center of theratchet structure and make contact and exert force substantially in adirection parallel to the axis of rotation of the index or frame part,the complementary engaging structures of FIGS. 55-63 extendcircumferentially and make contact and exert force in a radialdirection.

FIGS. 55-59 illustrate one combination of complementary ratchetrotational control structures, according to a preferred alternativeembodiment of the invention. The functional components include a malecomponent 600 and a female component 610. Male component 600 includesbase 602, which may be molded into, or extending outwardly from one ofthe mating surfaces (not shown). From base 602, contoured projectingportion 604, includes a plurality of convex ridges 606, arrangedcircumferentially about central post 608, which may be provided with abarb 609. Female component 610 likewise includes a base 612, which maybe molded into, or extending outwardly from the other of the matingsurfaces (not shown). From base 612, contoured recess 614 includes aplurality of concavities 616, separated by crests 618. Centered inrecess 614 is aperture 620.

In operation, when the mating surfaces are brought together, such aswhen a frame component is attached to an index, male component 600(which may be on the frame) is insertingly received in recess 614 offemale component 610 (which may be on the side of the index). Centralpost 608 (and flexible/resilient barb 609) is received in aperture 620.If a barb 609 is provided, there will be provided an enlarged cavity“behind” aperture 620, to accommodate barb 609, so that barb 609 servesto lock the two structures together. At least a portion of projectingportion 604 will be insertingly received in recess 614. Preferably, thefit between projecting portion 604 and the inside surfaces of recess 614will be close, but not tight, so that if sufficient torque is applied tothe components connected to the respective mating surfaces, the materialof components 600 and 610 will distort (without breaking or permanentdeformation) sufficient to permit the crests 618 to ride up on the sidesof ridges 606, and then snap into the next adjacent troughs 607 betweenridges 606. Preferably, the material(s) from which components 600 and610 are made, will be sufficiently flexible and resilient that theratcheting action will not require excessive force, but will be strongenough that the structures will remain in their new positions (even whentools are loaded) until acted upon again by a sufficiently strong enoughintentionally applied torsional force, and not wear down over the courseof a reasonable expected lifespan of the overall device.

It is to be understood that the amount of curvature, and the proportionsand dimensions of the complementary surfaces may be varied dependingupon the requirements of the particular application. The shapes of thecomplementary surfaces likewise may be varied as desired. By making theforces to be exerted/overcome to move the respective structures extendin the radial direction, it is believed that a more reliable ratchetaction, and more reliable position-holding capability will be provided,as compared to the ratchet structure of FIGS. 42-44.

FIG. 60 is an elevation of an alternative ratchet component. FIG. 61 isan elevation of an alternative ratchet component, which is complementaryto the component of FIG. 60. As can be seen, the components of FIGS. 60,61 are functionally the reverse of those of FIGS. 55-59. It is to beunderstood that each of these components may be either molded into orextending from the surfaces the respective mating surfaces of thestructures to be pivotably, but restrainably, connected. Male component700 includes base 702, concave contoured projecting portion 704, havingconcavities 706 and crests 708, and central post 708 (which may includea barb, not shown). Female component 710 includes base 712, recess 714,a plurality of convex projections 716, separated by notches 718, allsurrounding a central aperture 720. The operation of components 700, 710(once their respective mating surfaces have been brought together,concave contoured projecting portion 704 being insertably received intorecess 714, and center post 708 inserted into central aperture 720), isanalogous to the operation of components 600, 610.

Depending upon such factors as the hardness(es) of the material(s) fromwhich the ratchet components are made, the structures which interface inthe ratchet structures, need not be rounded, but can be more angular incross-section, as shown in FIGS. 62-63.

It is to be understood further that while the male ratchet componentshave been described and illustrated as having the projecting posts thatare received in the apertures of the female ratchet components, inalternative embodiments, the apertures may be disposed on the maleratchet components and the center posts disposed on the female ratchetcomponents.

FIG. 62 is an elevation of an alternative ratchet component. FIG. 63 isan elevation of an alternative ratchet component, which is complementaryto the component of FIG. 60. Male component 800 includes base 802,spiked projection portion 804 with radial spikes 806 and gaps 808, andcentral post 810. Female component 812 includes base 814, recess 816,radially inwardly projecting teeth 818, gaps 820, and central aperture822. Again, upon bringing the mating surfaces together, portion 804 isinsertably received in recess 816, and center post 810 is received inaperture 822. Spikes 806 will fit into gaps 820, and teeth 818 will fitinto gaps 808. The ratchet operation, again, will be similar to thatdescribed with the other embodiments of FIGS. 55-59 and 60-61.

Again, it will be understood that the contours of the projections on themale components and the contours of the surfaces of the recesses of thefemale components are shown by way of example, and the invention is notintended to be limited thereto, as other complementary constructions maybe employed, without departing from the scope of the invention.

FIGS. 64-66 illustrate an alternative construction for the retainingpins used for holding down the frames and/or the indexes (if pivotable).Retaining pin 900 includes a central post 902, and two side legs 904,906, and is configured to have a trapezoidal “footprint” as seen fromabove in FIG. 66, so as to fit into one of trapezoidal slots, e.g., slot164, as described hereinabove. Legs 904, 906 are joined to post 902 bywebs 908, 910, and have wedge-shaped teeth 912 extending laterally fromtheir outwardly-directed faces. Preferably, retaining pin 900 isslightly wider than the width of the slot into which it will be forciblyfitted, so that legs 904, 906 will be deflected slightly toward oneanother, and teeth 912 will frictionally engage the adjacent insidesurfaces of the slot, to hold it in place. Center post 902 will have apin 914 extending upwardly from its top surface, upon which retainingarm 916 will be pivotably mounted (see arrows in FIG. 66), preferablywith sufficient frictional resistance against pivoting, that retainingarm 916 will not be loose, but will pivot under moderate pressure fromone side.

The structures of the rack and frame parts may be modified considerably,and if suitably dimensioned and provided with mating rotational controlsurfaces, swapped or interchanged as prompted by the requirements of agiven application, to accommodate tool parts of various sizes andshapes, without departing from the scope of the invention, and thepresent invention is not limited to those particular embodimentsillustrated herein.

FIGS. 67-70 illustrate the components of an index, incorporating analternative ratchet structure, according to an embodiment of the presentinvention, which is related to the ratchet structure of FIGS. 55-62.

FIG. 67 is a perspective view of an index cover part 1000, which may beotherwise similar in structure and function, to the indices shownhereinabove, e.g., index cover part 116 of FIG. 2. Index cover part 1000includes notch 1002 at one end (a similar notch is located at the otherend, which is provided to receive an inwardly extending post (discussedin further detail hereinafter), which would be provided in thecorresponding case part (analogous to case parts 102, 104 of FIG. 1), inwhich the index cover part 1000 would be received.

Index cover part 1000 is also provided, at each end, with a femaleratchet structure 1004, which is analogous in structure and function tothe female ratchet structures 610 (of FIG. 55), 710 (of FIG. 61) and 812(of FIG. 63). Female ratchet structure 1004 is in the form of agenerally star-shaped recess, with a periphery having a plurality oftriangle- or spike-shaped outwardly radiating notches 1006 or, looked atanother way, inwardly radiating projections 1008, the notches orprojections being formed by a series of planar, generally rectangular,faces 1009.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the material of index coverpart 1000 surrounding the star-shaped recess is partially interrupted,by a gap 1010. This is because preferred embodiments of the inventionwill be fabricated from plastic or plastic-like materials, and formedsuch as by injection molding or similar processes, and by providing agap 1010, the molding process may be made easier, as will readily berecognized by one of ordinary skill in the art of plastic moldingprocesses, having the present disclosure before them. For similarreasons, the “bottom” of the recess may, in fact also be perforated inparts, such as at 1012. Thus, the “bottom” of the recess may be formedby two webs 1014, 1016, which are “below” or to the inside of, therecess (as shown in FIG. 68). Web 1014 includes a concave arcuatesurface 1018, and web 1016 includes a concave arcuate surface 1020,which arcuate surfaces 1018, 1020 together form a space, analogous toaperture 620 (of FIG. 57), for receiving the projecting post 1030 (FIGS.68, 70) of the male ratchet portion 1028.

In alternative embodiments of the invention (not shown), for example, inwhich other manufacturing methods permit the index cover part to have amore solid structure, the gaps, such as 1010 and 1012, may be omitted,and the area around female ratchet structure 1004 may be more “solid”,save for the aperture for receiving the post of the male ratchetportion, which would still need to be a through aperture (if the posthas a barbed portion), or which may be a blind bore (if the post lacks abarbed portion).

FIG. 68 illustrates a frame part 1022, having a web 1024, and asupporting cross brace 1026, and male ratchet portion 1028. A similarmale ratchet portion, to that illustrated, is located on the oppositeinside surface of the web 1024, and is shown in broken lines. Maleratchet portion 1028 includes post 1030, contoured projecting portion1032, which includes, in the embodiment of FIGS. 67-70, two radiallyoutwardly extending triangular projections 1034, which are located 1800apart. In alternative embodiments, a greater number of projections maybe provided (being still less than the total number of notches providedin the female ratchet portion)—so long as each projection provided willbe received in one of the notches, at any given position of the framewith respect to the index cover part, or even only one projection, solong as post 1030 is provided, to keep male ratchet portion 1028centered, relative to female ratchet portion 1004.

When frame part 1022 is snapped onto index cover part 1000 (bothcomponents preferably being fabricated from a resilient material of atleast some flexibility), male ratchet portions 1028 are insertingreceived into female ratchet portions 1004, with projections 1034 beingreceived in oppositely located ones of the notches 1006, betweenrespective adjacent pairs of projections 1008. The clearance betweenprojections 1034, and faces 1009 will be such that preferably, therewill be a limited amount of “play”, and frame part 1022 will tend toremain in any given rotational orientation, relative to index cover part1000, unless a fairly substantial torsional force is exerted on eitherframe part 1022 and/or index cover part 1000, to overcome theinterference resistance created between the tips of projections 1008,and the tips of projections 1034. However, once enough force is applied,the respective contacting structures of the male and female ratchetstructures will momentarily deflect enough to enable the frame to beincrementally pivotably moved, relative to index cover part 1000, andthe ratcheting motion will continue, until either the force is removed,or the frame has reach the limits of its available pivoting movementrelative to index cover part 1000 (which limits will, in a preferredembodiment, be about 90°±, as caused by the presence of rounded,outwardly projecting shoulders 1021).

As with the other previously described embodiments, the notches andprojections of the female ratchet portion may have contours which areother than triangular (such that faces 1009 may be other than planar,such as convex or concave, or broken into plural planar faces), and theprojection(s) of the male ratchet portion likewise may be other thantriangular, and have side(s) that are planar, convex or concave orbroken into plural planar faces.

The construction of the embodiment of FIGS. 67-70, comprises anapplication of, and a simplification of, the principles of thestructures of the embodiments of FIGS. 55-62, and is believed torepresent an improvement in terms of manufacturability.

The embodiment of FIGS. 67-70 also includes additional distinctivestructures. As noted earlier, index cover part 1000 includes slots 1002,located at both ends of the cover part. Index cover part 1000 isconfigured to receive inwardly extending posts, which are cooperativelyengaged, in a manner to be described hereinafter) with the wedge-shapedslots of the case (e.g., slots 161), which are an enhancement of thepivot pins 160 described hereinabove. FIGS. 71-74 illustrate pivot pin1040, which includes wings 1042, 1044, which are angled so as to fit,with a moderate frictional resistance, into a slot in a case, such asslots 161. Pivot pin 1040 also includes stem 1046, which is preferablygenerally cylindrical and has a diameter which is less than the heightof slot 1002, and head 1048, which preferably is disc-shaped and has adiameter which is greater than the height of slot 1002.

In practice, when an index is being assembled, using index cover part1000, two pivot pins 1040 are inserted, along stems 1046, into each ofslots 1002, such that heads 1048 are on the inside of index cover part1000. The index is completed by snap-fitting onto index cover part 1000a mating index cover part, similar or analogous to index cover part 128of FIG. 3. After the mating index cover part has been snapped onto coverpart 1000, then the assembled index and frame part (or parts) is loweredinto a case part, with pivot pins 1040 being inserted into opposingslots 161.

The present invention also includes an alternative embodiment of theretaining pin of FIGS. 64-66. Retaining pin 1100 includes wedge-shapedpost 1102, which is configured to have a trapezoidal “footprint” as seenfrom above in FIG. 76, so as to fit into one of trapezoidal slots, e.g.,slot 164, as described hereinabove. Post 1102 includes wings 1104 and1106, joined by web 1110. Post 1100 has square pin 1112, topped bysquare block 1114. Attached to post 1102 is retaining arm 1116, whichincludes slot 1118, which preferably fits with a friction fit onto pin1112. Retaining arm 1116 includes leg 1120, which can flex, slightly,when a lateral force is exerted on arm 1116, which would tend to causearm 1116 to pivot around pin 1112, to enable arm 1116 to be moved from aposition blocking the index or frame, to a position which clears theindex or frame, to permit the index or frame to be moved.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 75 and 76, post 1102 is, as mentioned,provided with two “wings” 1106 and 1108, which define a vertical openspace 1122. In an alternative embodiment, post 1102 may be formedwithout any internal voids, so as to provide a solid post, which may bestronger, more durable and/or stiffer. In addition, in the embodiment ofFIGS. 75, 76, retaining arm 1116 is provided with slot 1118, which iscompletely rectangular, as seen in FIG. 81. In an alternativeembodiment, shown in FIG. 82, for retaining arm 1116′, the opening toslot 1118′ may be narrower than the interior portion of slot 1118′, sothat only in the interior portion of slot 1118′ are the sides of theslot parallel. In this way, the “grip” of retaining arm 1116′ on a pin1112 can be made tighter. The portions of the sides of slot 1118′ thatnarrow toward the opening can be slightly curved, as shown in FIG. 82,or straight and angling toward one another, and/or small bumps may beprovided to make the entry to slot 1118′ narrower (see broken lines).

While the present invention is described and illustrated with particularreference to the environment of a drill bit case, in which the indexesand frames (and the bits they hold) occupy substantially the entireinterior of the two-piece hinged case parts, it is to be understood thatthe modular tool holding structure can be applied to other types of tooland part holding cases, such as general multi-part tool cases, in whichother tools (both hand and/or power tools) are also contained in thesame case, along with the index and frame structure. One or more indexesmay be accommodated in each side of a case, as space permits. Inaddition, the case does not have to be a two-piece hinged case type oreven a hinged type to accommodate or take advantage of the presentinvention. For example, a simple rectangular parallelepiped case, havinga snap or slide-on lid can also be adapted, so long as it has theinterior structures (e.g., the pegs for defining the slots) forreceiving the pivot pins of one or more indexes, and optionally forholding the retaining pins.

The packaging, storage and display apparatus and system of the presentinvention has many advantages for a manufacturer of goods such as tooland parts kits, as well as a private consumer, in that by being able toselect from a variety of racks and a variety of frame structures, givesa manufacturer or individual consumer the flexibility to design andassemble a tool case, to the particular specifications of the particularmanufacturer or individual consumer. In addition, the movable andpositionable frame structures permit the user of the tools to open thecase and position the tools in a desired work orientation that is mostsuitable to the needs and/or tastes of the particular user. In addition,through the use of the pegs in the case interiors, which define thetrapezoidal slots that receive the pivot pins of the indexes, a consumer(whether private or a business consumer) may have a number of differentindex/frame structures holding different tool bits or parts, whichdifferent index/frame structures can be switched in and out of a case,as desired or required by the needs of the user.

In addition, by providing the pivoting one- or two-piece (or more)frames that are pivotable with respect to the index, the index can beremoved from a case and set up as a free-standing index, out of itscase, by moving the frame around to hold up the index. For this reason,the indexes of the preferred embodiment have solid, unbroken front andback parts, in part to provide a complete finished look, as well as toprovide space for indicia indicating the sizes of the respective toolsheld in the index, if desired. Thus, in commercial embodiments of theinvention, tool cases can be sold with selected indexes in them, andindexes and frames of various sizes can be sold separately, or invarious combinations.

The foregoing description and drawings merely explain and illustrate theinvention, and the invention is not limited thereto, except as thoseskilled in the art who have the present disclosure before them will beable to make modifications and variations therein without departing fromthe scope of the invention.

1. A holder for packaging, storing and displaying articles, comprising:an index having positioned therewithin a rack which is operablyconfigured to engage and releasably retain an end of at least onearticle; a frame structure pivotably mounted to the index; rotationcontrol structure interconnecting the frame structure and the index,operably configured to enable at least one portion of the framestructure to remain in a first position relative to the index until aforce greater than a predetermined amount is applied, prompting the atleast one portion of the frame structure to move to one of a pluralityof possible second positions relative to the index, and to furtherenable the at least one portion of the frame structure to remain in theone of a plurality of second positions upon removal of the force,wherein the frame structure includes at least one surface which engageswith a corresponding mating surface of the at least one index, and therotation control structure comprises mating ratchet structures disposedon the at least one surface of the frame structure and the correspondingmating surface of the at least one index.
 2. The holder for packaging,storing and displaying articles according to claim 1, wherein the framestructure comprises: a web of material, one end of which is connected toand extends from one end of the at least one index for a predetermineddistance, across the width of the at least one index and proceeds at theother end of the web, to the other end of the index, to form a loopwhich encloses a defined space between the frame structure and theindex, within which the articles received by the index are to bepositioned.
 3. The holder for packaging, storing and displaying articlesaccording to claim 1, wherein the frame structure is selected from aplurality of frame structures having different shapes and configurationsfor defining different shapes and areas of spaces between the webs ofthe frame structures and the index, when each of the frame structures ismounted on the index.
 4. The holder for packaging, storing anddisplaying articles according to claim 1, wherein the frame structureincludes at least one surface which engages with a corresponding matingsurface of the at least one index, and the rotation control structurecomprises mating ratchet structures disposed on the at least one surfaceof the frame structure and the corresponding mating surface of the atleast one index.
 5. The packaging, storage and display apparatus forarticles according to claim 1, wherein the rotation control structurecomprises: at least one male ratchet member, disposed on one of theframe structure and the index, and having an first axis of pivoting, anda projecting contoured portion with contoured ratchet surfaces disposedcircumferentially about the first axis of pivoting on a radiallyoutwardly facing surface of the projecting contoured portion; at leastone female ratchet member, disposed on the other of the frame structureand the index, and having a second axis of pivoting, and a recesscentered on the axis of pivoting, and a plurality of complementarycontoured ratchet surfaces disposed circumferentially about the secondaxis of pivoting on a radially inwardly facing surface of the recess;the at least one first male ratchet member being laterally insertablyreceived in the at least one female ratchet member, the first axis ofpivoting being disposed coaxially with the second axis of pivoting. 6.The packaging, storage and display apparatus for articles according toclaim 5, wherein the contoured ratchet surfaces of the male ratchetmember comprise a plurality of convex projections.
 7. The packaging,storage and display apparatus for articles according to claim 5, whereinthe plurality of complementary contoured ratchet surfaces of the femaleratchet member comprise a plurality of concavities.
 8. The packaging,storage and display apparatus for articles according to claim 5, whereinthe contoured ratchet surfaces of the male ratchet member comprise aplurality of concavities.
 9. The packaging, storage and displayapparatus for articles according to claim 5, wherein the plurality ofcomplementary contoured ratchet surfaces of the female ratchet membercomprise a plurality of convex projections.
 10. The packaging, storageand display apparatus for articles according to claim 5, wherein theplurality of complementary contoured ratchet surfaces of the femaleratchet member and the contoured ratchet surfaces of the male ratchetmember comprise complementary sets of radially extending projections.11. The packaging, storage and display apparatus for articles accordingto claim 1, wherein the rotation control structure comprises: at leastone laterally cantilevered male ratchet member, disposed on one of theframe structure and the index, and having an first axis of pivoting, anda projecting contoured portion with contoured ratchet surfaces disposedcircumferentially about the first axis of pivoting on a radiallyoutwardly facing surface of the projecting contoured portion; at leastone laterally opening female ratchet member, disposed on the other ofthe frame structure and the index, and having a second axis of pivoting,and a recess centered on the axis of pivoting, and a plurality ofcomplementary contoured ratchet surfaces disposed circumferentiallyabout the second axis of pivoting on a radially inwardly facing surfaceof the recess; the at least one laterally cantilevered first maleratchet member being laterally insertably received in the at least onefemale ratchet member, the first axis of pivoting being disposedcoaxially with the second axis of pivoting.
 12. The packaging, storageand display apparatus for articles according to claim 1, furthercomprising: at least one retaining pin, operably positioned in the atleast one case section, for releasably engaging and retaining at leastone of the frame structure and the at least one index when the at leastone index is disposed in its stowed position.
 13. The packaging, storageand display apparatus for articles, according to claim 12, wherein theat least one retaining pin comprises: a central post, having a retainingarm extending laterally therefrom; at least one flexible side leg,extending substantially parallel to the central post, and connectedthereto by a transverse web; at least one tooth, extending laterallyfrom the at least one flexible leg, for frictionally engaging an insidesurface of a retaining pin receiving aperture disposed in the at leastone case section.
 14. The packaging, storage and display apparatus forarticles, according to claim 12, wherein the at least one retaining pincomprises: a post, operably configured to be received in a cooperativelyconfigured slot in the case; a retaining arm pivotably mounted to thepost.
 15. The packaging, storage and display apparatus for articles,according to claim 12, wherein the post includes a pin extendingupwardly therefrom, having a rectangular cross-sectional configuration,and wherein the retaining arm includes a rectangular slot extendingtherethrough, a resiliently deformable leg forming one edge of the slot,so that upon receipt of the pin in the slot, the retaining arm isconfigured to be resistively pivotable around the pin, between at leasttwo positions disposed at least 90° from one another.